How to Teach a Dog to Fetch a Frisbee

Teaching your dog to fetch a Frisbee is a healthy activity that helps you bond with your dog. Some dog breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever, have a natural instinct to fetch objects. Catching and fetching a Frisbee can be an ideal way for your dog to burn off energy, and it is actually an official canine sport. According to the U.S. Disc Dog Nationals, there are four types of Frisbee dog events: catch and retrieve, freestyle, accuracy and long distance.

Things You'll Need

  • Frisbee
  • 15- to 30-foot leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Roll the Frisbee away from you like a wheel, and encourage the dog to follow it. You may have to get the dog's interest first by waving the Frisbee in front of it and acting excited. Allow the dog to chase the Frisbee and get used to following it.

    • 2

      Encourage the dog to bring the Frisbee back to you. With the dog on a 15- to 30-foot leash, throw the Frisbee and call the dog to you. Gently tug on the leash if the dog does not show signs of coming to you. Constantly praise the dog as it brings the Frisbee back to you.

    • 3

      Teach the dog to drop the Frisbee. Hold a favorite toy or treat in one hand and say "drop." When the dog drops the Frisbee, give it the toy or treat as a reward. Once the dog understands, hold the trading item in your hand every few times only. Repeat until the dog drops the Frisbee on command without expecting a reward.

    • 4

      Start throwing the Frisbee further and let the dog off the leash. Try throwing the Frisbee in the air slightly so the dog has to jump to catch it. Gradually increase the distance of the throw; increase the height as well if the dog is capable of catching the Frisbee in the air.